In this episode of Dirty Scrap, host Julio Quintero sits down with Beatriz Landa, VP of Metal Procurement & Planning at Novelis, to dive deep into the challenges and opportunities shaping the aluminum industry.

From her unique journey — professional soccer player, lawyer, McKinsey consultant, and now a senior executive at Novelis — to leading strategies that aim for 75% recycled content by 2030, Beatriz shares an inspiring perspective on leadership, sustainability, and industry transformation.

🔑 What you’ll learn in this episode:

How the aluminum market shifted from a seller’s to a buyer’s market in just months.

Why tariffs and policy uncertainty in Washington are reshaping supply chains.

The role of scrap flexibility and technology in boosting recycling efficiency.

Novelis’ long-term strategy: 75% recycled content and <3t CO₂ per ton by 2030.

The story behind Women in Novelis and how diversity initiatives are changing plant culture.

Insights on recycling rates: Why Europe hits 90–95% UBC recovery while the U.S. lags at 45–50%.

Why collaboration between primary and secondary aluminum is essential for the industry’s future.

✨ Beatriz also delivers a strong message to women in manufacturing: “This industry is exciting, growing, and sustainable — we need more women to join us.”

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com